Prime Minister Leads Review on Heatwave Preparedness, Emphasizes Comprehensive Government Response
PM reviews preparedness for heat wave related situation
PM stressed upon whole of Government approach; also highlighted importance of awareness creation along with adequate preparation in hospitals
PM briefed about forecasts for upcoming hot weather season and likelihood of above normal maximum temperatures
PM also reviewed preparedness of Health sector
Timely dissemination of essential IEC / awareness material - esp in regional languages, through all platforms - stressed
Advisories issued by Health Ministry and NDMA to be translated into regional languages and disseminated widely
In an important meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, the nation's preparedness for the upcoming heatwave season was meticulously assessed. With forecasts predicting above-normal temperatures, especially in Central India and western peninsular India from April to June 2024, the review focused on a comprehensive response to mitigate the heatwave's impact.
The Prime Minister was informed about the temperature outlook and the potential for significantly hotter weather. The readiness of the health sector was thoroughly examined, with specific attention to the availability of essential medicines, intravenous fluids, ice packs, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), and drinking water.
A significant emphasis was placed on the prompt dissemination of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials in regional languages through various media channels to ensure widespread awareness. Given the coinciding General Elections, it was deemed crucial for advisories issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the National Disaster Management Authority to be translated into regional languages and widely circulated.
The Prime Minister advocated for a collaborative approach, involving all government tiers and ministries, to address this challenge effectively. He underscored the importance of raising awareness and ensuring hospitals are well-prepared to deal with heat-related illnesses. Additionally, the urgency of promptly detecting and extinguishing forest fires was highlighted.
The meeting was attended by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Home Secretary, officials from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), and the National Disaster Management Authority, illustrating the government's commitment to a unified and effective response to the impending heatwave conditions.